Childhood Allergies – Part 7 – Vitamin D

This is the seventh in a series of posts answering the question: “Why has there been such an astronomical rise in childhood allergies?”

Today we’re going to look at the role that Vitamin D plays in allergies. I find it ironic that we are now so adamant that everyone stay out of the sun, which is our best source of Vitamin D.

It’s ironic because at the same time we are learning just how important Vitamin D is for us. Vitamin D is especially important for our immune system where it both increases immune activity and helps to modulate it. This modulation helps reduce autoimmune reactions as well as inappropriate immune reactions such as is seen with some allergies.

There are theories that the lack of Vitamin D from sunlight during the winter is part of the reason for the increase in colds and flu during winter months. Vitamin D deficiency has also been found in multiple sclerosis, which is an autoimmune disease.

It’s encouraging that Vitamin D is now more commonly measured during routine blood work. Ask your doctor about it, if they’re not already testing for Vitamin D.

Next up in the series – What are GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms)?

This is the seventh in a series of blog posts answering the question: “Why has there been such an astronomical rise in childhood allergies?” To view other posts: